South Dakota State Sen. Mark Lapka, a Republican representing the state's 23rd legislative district, was cited for driving under the influence after allegedly operating a combine harvester while impaired late Tuesday in McPherson County near Leola.

Authorities reported that Lapka drove the heavy equipment in a manner that damaged roadside markers, a power pole, and a tree, leaving the combine entangled. The incident also forced at least one vehicle to swerve into a ditch to avoid a collision, according to witness reports.

Operating a combine harvester under the influence represents a particularly reckless choice given the machine's size, power, and potential to cause severe harm. The serious public safety risks involved are numerous. These vehicles are massive pieces of agricultural equipment, often spanning more than 20 feet wide with headers that extend even further, and they can weigh tens of thousands of pounds. Their powerful engines and complex mechanisms make them difficult to maneuver safely even for sober operators, and any impairment greatly increases the risk of catastrophic damage to roads, utility infrastructure, other vehicles, and bystanders.

Machinery like combines has been linked to numerous accidents and fatalities in agricultural settings across the country, underscoring the amplified danger when such equipment is mishandled. The combine's cutter arm was apparently active throughout the duration of the incident, including when Lapka reportedly drove the machine through a local park. No major injuries were reported.

Witnesses at the scene provided videos of the incident that allegedly show Lapka operating the combine and damaging property.

McPherson County State’s Attorney Austin Hoffman confirmed the DUI citation but declined further comment due to the ongoing investigation. Lapka, a farmer and first-term senator, has not responded publicly as of Thursday afternoon. He faces a court appearance in the coming weeks. A first-offense DUI in South Dakota is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,000 fine.

This marks the third instance of criminal charges against a sitting South Dakota lawmaker in recent months, drawing attention to accountability issues among elected officials.

Sources familiar with the state's political landscape told Real Truth Media that Senator Lapka has been rumored to have been eyeing a leadership bid following the 2026 general election, specifically looking to throw his hat in the ring to become the Senate Majority Leader. Lapka is unopposed in the November election and will begin a second term in January barring a resignation. Whether he will continue to seek a leadership position following this incident is currently unknown.